“The night before Thanksgiving we often have family members or friends who have traveled from faraway places spending the night. With all of the food preparation the next day we try to keep the meal simple. One of our favorites is a meal of the first of the season Dungeness crab with a big green salad, fresh bread and Louis dressing. The natural for crab is Chardonnay and with the reemergence of Talbott Winery from the central coast of California, the 2009 Kali Hart Chard is perfect. The wine is fermented mostly in stainless steel with some oak treatment too making for a wine with all of the butter notes to highlight the crab but with leanness and texture to pull the meal together.” - George Balling Coeur D'alene Press - Click here

“Medium red. Fragrant aromas of redcurrant, raspberry and peppery spices, with a hint of woodsmoke. Juicy and sweet on entry, then tighter in the middle, offering tangy red berry flavors and a touch of bitter herbs. Shows an appealing jamminess on the finish, with the raspberry and spice notes repeating. This seamless, smooth pinot has the depth to handle richer foods but it's carrying little excess weight.” Josh Raynolds International Wine Cellar - Click here

“Bright gold. Smoky, lees-accented aromas of pear, melon and white flowers, with building spiciness. A juicy, palate-caressing midweight, with good depth and energy to its orchard fruit and candied citrus flavors. The spicy note comes back on the delineated, persistent finish.” Josh Raynolds International Wine Cellar - Click here

“Deep red. Black raspberry and cherry on the nose. Ripe and fleshy, with deep dark fruit flavors that coat the palate but could use more vivacity. Finishes broad and persistent, with a slightly loose-knit character. Best served with a light chill.” Josh Raynolds International Wine Cellar - Click here

“Vivid yellow. Poached pear, melon and butterscotch on the pungent nose. Ripe and fleshy, with good depth and a bit of heat to its broad orchard and pit fruit flavors. Finishes smooth and gently sweet, leaving notes of sweet butter and honey behind. I'd have liked a bit more vivacity but fans of rich, creamy chardonnay should love this.” Josh Raynolds International Wine Cellar - Click here